What to do if You are Injured in a Train Accident in California

Most people think taking the train is safer than driving, but statistics show an alarming number of train accidents and train fatalities each year. With over 5,000 train accidents in 2018 so far, California is one of the leading states for train accidents nationwide. If you are ever involved in a train accident, It is important to know what to do (and what not to do) so that you can ensure the best odds of obtaining the maximum recovery possible for your injuries. If you or a loved one has been injured in a train accident, call the experienced train accident lawyers at Willoughby Brod today to learn how we can help fight for your rights and get you the compensation you deserve.

Seek Medical Help

The first thing you will want to do if you have been injured in a train accident is seek medical help. If you are involved in an accident on or with a passenger train, chances are someone has already called an ambulance. If you are not sure whether medical help is on its way, call an ambulance immediately.

Once the ambulance arrives, seek a diagnosis and treatment, if possible. If it is not possible to seek medical treatment at the scene of the accident, go to a hospital as soon as you can to obtain a diagnosis from a doctor. It is important that a doctor sees you as soon after the accident as possible and that you consult with a doctor even if you do not feel any immediate symptoms. Many symptoms from train accidents do not show up right away, but a doctor will be able to detect any underlying pain and obtain treatment for you right away.

Collect and Preserve Evidence

Even though the train company will be taking photographs of the scene, obtaining witness reports, and otherwise collecting their own evidence, it would be unwise for you to rely solely on their evidence. The train company has its own interests in mind before thinking about the interests of any injured passengers or other involved parties, so the most reliable evidence you can collect is the evidence you obtain on your own. Take photos and videos of the scene, including any injuries incurred, type of accident (e.g. derailment), and area conditions that may show inclement weather or other obstructions.

Save the Chit Chat

After experiencing such a traumatic event, you might feel relief talking through the experience with those around you. Try to refrain from doing so. Anything you say could be documented and eventually used against you if it so much as hints at any wrongdoing on your part that contributed to the accident. Save the chit chat for after you hire an attorney to represent your rights.

If you have been injured in a train accident in San Francisco or the surrounding area, call the experienced train accident lawyers at Willoughby Brod today. Our attorneys have helped countless victims of train accidents obtain a full recovery on their injuries, and we are here to help you achieve those same results. Contact us at (800) 427-7020 or visit us online to schedule your free consultation today.